The Canadian transcontinental and Montreal-New York routes were enhanced with the introduction of the DC-9's in April 1966.

Over the past 45 years, modifications were made to existing aircraft, and new technologically updated DC-9 models were introduced. The most distinctive feature of the DC-9 is the high-level horizontal stabilizer mounted at the top of the rudder assembly to accommodate the installation of the Pratt & Whitney turbofan engines on either side of the aft fuselage.

Air Canada’s last scheduled DC-9 passenger flight was operated with Fin number 711 from La Guardia to Montreal on January 18, 2002.